Winter Care for Dogs & Cats: Keeping Pets Warm and Safe

A British winter is hard work for pets as well as people. Freezing pavements, grit, dark walks, damp coats and hidden hazards like antifreeze all call for a bit of extra care. Here's how to keep your dog and cat warm, safe and content through the cold months.

Keeping dogs warm and safe outdoors

• Coats for the cold. Short-haired, small, young, elderly and slim breeds feel the cold most. A warm, waterproof coat like our reflective waterproof raincoat keeps them dry and comfortable on wet-weather walks.
• Protect their paws. Grit, salt and ice can crack and irritate paw pads. Rinse and dry paws after walks, and consider winter dog boots for grip and protection.
• Stay visible. With walks in the dark, a USB LED safety collar makes your dog visible to traffic well in advance.
• Dry off properly. A damp dog gets cold fast — an absorbent bathrobe towel speeds up drying after wet walks.

Warm, cosy spaces indoors

Move beds away from draughts and cold floors, and add extra warmth for older or arthritic pets whose joints stiffen in the cold. A supportive memory-foam bed and a cosy sherpa blanket make a real difference — our Calm & Cosy Set brings them together.

Winter hazards to watch for

• Antifreeze is deadly. It tastes sweet to pets but is highly toxic even in tiny amounts. Clean up spills immediately and store it securely; seek emergency veterinary help at once if you suspect ingestion.
• Grit and rock salt can irritate paws and upset stomachs if licked off — wipe paws after every walk.
• Check under the car. Cats seek warmth in engine bays — tap the bonnet before starting up in cold weather.
• Don't over-trim coats. Let your dog's natural coat do its insulating job through winter.

Diet and exercise

Pets may burn more energy staying warm but exercise less in bad weather — keep an eye on their weight and adjust portions accordingly. On days too grim to walk far, indoor enrichment and play keep them stimulated (see our enrichment guide).

When to see your vet

Older pets with arthritis often struggle more in winter. If you notice stiffness, reluctance to walk, or shivering that doesn't settle once warm, have a chat with your vet.

Get winter-ready with our Dogs and Beds & Comfort ranges.

This article is general guidance and isn't a substitute for veterinary advice. If you suspect antifreeze poisoning, contact your vet immediately.